James Franco in talks for Gertrude Bell biopic

A prequel to L. Frank Baum's novel "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz" and the 1939 film adaptation, this 2013 3D fantasy adventure follows Oscar Diggs (James Franco), a small-time circus magician with dubious ethics, as he's whisked away from dusty Kansas to the vibrant Land of Oz. At first he thinks he's hit the jackpot-fame and fortune are his for the taking.

The 'Oz the Great and Powerful' actor may replace Jude Law in Werner Herzog's biopic on the life of Gertrude Bell after the 'Anna Karenina' star dropped out of his role, reports Deadline.

Franco would star alongside 'The Impossible' actress Naomi Watts - who is set to play the historic writer and archaeologist - and 'Twilight' actor Robert Pattinson, who have long been attached to the project.

The film would follow the life of Gertrude Bell, a writer, explorer, and political attache for the British empire, who was considered a trailblazer at the turn of the 20th century.

Franco would play the historical figure's lover Henry Cadogan, who she was with until his untimely death.

The in-demand actor has numerous projects in various stages of development following his star role in Disney's blockbuster family movie 'Oz the Great and Powerful' earlier this year, as well as a role in the buzzworthy 'Spring Breakers'.

He will next be seen in raunchy comedy 'This is the End' and recently signed on to star alongside Kate Hudson in crime thriller 'Good People'.